Man of La Mancha, Queen’s University, 2009

I wanted to create a world onstage that reflected the power of Don Quixote’s storytelling by only using items that would be found in the prison world, or in the trunk Quixote brings into the prison with him, as costumes and props. This desire to use only things on stage from the moment the show started meant that the ensemble and musicians all remained onstage and visible for the entierty of the show. This directoral strategy necessitated a collaborative relationship with the choreographer, vocal director, musical director and technical team. An example of this close collaboration is pictured below. In this scene, The Enchanter as The Knight of Mirrors, attacked Quixote and forced him to see himself as the world sees him as “a madman and a fool”. The Knight’s armour is made of shattered mirrors and shiney objects that might be found in a 17th century Spanish prison. The ensemble helps the actor playing The Enchantor create The Night of Mirrors using their own bodies and voices. It took planning, practice and great deal of rehearsal to execute this scene but it was visually arresting and emotionally wrenching.